Hurricane Erin, the first major hurricane of the 2025 Atlantic season, has intensified into a Category 3 storm with sustained winds of 125 mph. As of August 18, the storm is located approximately 130 miles east-northeast of Grand Turk Island, moving northwest at 12 mph. Despite not being expected to make landfall in the U.S., Erin's expansive size is generating hazardous conditions along the East Coast. 

Caribbean Impacts

Erin's outer bands have already affected several Caribbean regions. Puerto Rico experienced power outages affecting over 150,000 residents, along with flash flood warnings due to heavy rainfall. The storm also brought gusty winds and heavy rain to the Virgin Islands and the Leeward Islands. The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos are currently under Tropical Storm Warnings, with tropical storm-force winds and high surf expected through Tuesday.

East Coast Threats

Although Erin's core is not projected to make landfall, its large size is causing dangerous surf and rip currents along the U.S. East Coast, from Florida to New England. The National Hurricane Center has issued advisories for high surf and rip current risks, particularly in North Carolina and parts of the Southeast. Minor to locally moderate coastal flooding is also possible during high tides.

Forecast Outlook

Erin is expected to continue its northwestward trajectory, passing between North Carolina and Bermuda and remaining south of Atlantic Canada. While the storm is anticipated to weaken slightly, it will remain a formidable system, with hurricane-force winds extending 60 miles from the center and tropical-storm-force winds reaching out 230 miles.Residents along the East Coast are advised to exercise caution and stay informed of the latest weather updates.

For real-time updates and detailed forecasts, visit the National Hurricane Center's website or your local weather service.

Sources: AP News, Weather.com New York Post, ABC News